Rough weather conditions had led a dredger hit the new Venduruthy bridge last month, an inquiry conducted by the Cochin Port Trust has revealed.
“The dredger hit the bridge due to high tide coupled with strong winds,” stated the report submitted by Deputy Conservator Paul N Joseph. The report suggested that dredging work in this area should be carried out during ebb tide only and the International Safety Management Code should be followed during the work. On May 11, dredger Bhagavati Prem had hit the new Venduruthy bridge (Vikrant bridge).
The railing of the newly-built bridge was damaged in the accident but no casualty was reported. The dredger was hired by the Navy to carry out work at its jetty. Since the incident happened in the jurisdiction of the Cochin port, the Port Trust Chairman had ordered an inquiry.However, the Port Trust has not looked into the aspects related to the strength of the bridge. “Our inquiry was meant to find out the reason for the accident,” said Port Trust authorities.